DESCRIPTION: In a commercial fatality on Montana 's Gallatin River , William Spath, 53, was tossed from his raft at House Rock Rapid on June 19, 1996. The river was 1.5 feet below flood-stage, but this is still quite high. Although a one boat trip, there were people on shore with safety lines. Despite this, Mr. Spath drowned after a violent swim in very cold water.

SOURCE: Bozeman Daily Chronicle

ANALYSIS: (Walbridge) Flush-drowning, the term used to describe accidents in which a paddler drowns while swimming a long distance in rapids in a PFD, is a recurring problem in river rafting accidents. It can effect parties of any skill level. When a raft flips, many people are thrown into the water. They often become separated, making recovery difficult. Some rafters, both commercial and private, travel in one-boat trips, so there is no one around to pick up swimmers. Unusually high water contributed to most of the incidents described above.